Natural Pet Care - Veterinary Homeopathy?

What is Homeopathy?

The ancient Greeks first described basic homeopathic treatment. Samuel Hahnemann developed the scientific principles early in the 19th century and Homeopathy is now being rediscovered worldwide as an effective form of alternative therapy especially since it avoids the use of drugs with potentially harmful side effects.

Homeopathic treatment works well in both people and animals.

How does Veterinary Homeopathy work?

The body reacts to injury and disease by producing a variety of symptoms. Homeopathy recognizes that these symptoms represent the animal's attempt to heal itself and throw off the disease. Consequently, effective Veterinary Homeopathy does not suppress these symptoms but stimulates the natural healing processes to overcome the problem.

How does the Homeopathic Veterinarian decide which medicine to use?

The homeopathic veterinarian carries out a complete physical examination of the patient in order to identify all the disease symptoms. The owner will also be asked if there are any situations which make the symptoms better or worse. The veterinary homeopath may then consult a reference book (Materia Medica). This describes the particular symptoms which each medicine can be used to treat. He may also use a specialised computer software program to help him select the most suitable treatment.

It should be noted that animals with the same problem sometimes show different symptoms. For example, some lameness problems become worse with movement whereas others improve. Different homeopathic medicines will therefore be required for these different patients. The Homeopathic vet will identify which medicines may be needed during the consultation.

What types of medicines are used in Homeopathy?

All homeopathic medicines (remedies) are prepared from natural substances. These may be of animal, mineral or plant origin.

How are veterinary Homeopathic medicines prepared?

As with all Homeopathic medicines are prepared using a process called potentisation. This involves serial dilutions and vigorous shaking (or succussion) which energises the remedy. It is this energy which stimulates the natural healing process.

What types of diseases can Veterinary Homeopathy treat?

Most conditions can be successfully treated using veterinary Homeopathy. Improvement can be very quick in acute (sudden) conditions. Chronic (long standing conditions) may take longer to recover.

Many problems in animals which do not respond to conventional treatment can be treated successfully using veterinary Homeopathy.

Is a Homeopathic consultation different from a conventional one?

Yes. Homeopathic consultations generally last longer. This is because extra time is required to identify all the symptoms and to gather information on what makes these symptoms better or worse.